Chokor Duchen which falls on July 23 commemorates the day when BuddhaShakyamuni gave his first sermon, forty-nine days after he showed thedeed of gaining enlightenment. Buddha taught the Four Noble Truths isthis first sermon.

As cited in the Vinaya text Treasure of Quotations and Logic, allmerit created on this day is multiplied 100 million times, so do makefull use of this day by engaging in virtuous activities, makingextensive offerings and prayers.

1:30pm Recitation of Golden Light SutraKyabje Lama Zopa Rinpoche said this about the benefits of reciting theGolden Light Sutra: "The benefits of reading this sutra are immeasurable .... recitingjust a few lines of the Sutra of Golden Light creates more merit thanmaking ... immeasurable offerings to the Buddha. Reciting this sutradirects one's life towards enlightenment. There is so much merit ...one's life becomes so easy, whatever one wishes for one receives ...there is unbelievable purification ..."

7:30pm Shakyamuni Buddha Puja with 1000 OfferingsIn this puja, we honour the Buddha by paying homage throughrecollecting the Buddha's qualities and extensive deeds. We thenengagae in various practices including making extensive offerings,rejoicing in virtues and dedicating. This puja will be done inEnglish.